RheumExam Atlas - A New Online Learning Tool for Rheumatology Trainees

Rheumatology is a decidedly clinical specialty. The diagnosis of rheumatic disease often rests on the physical examination. Despite this, a significant portion of trainees struggle to understand the nuances of physical examination findings. This may be a result of well controlled patients attending a clinic with few physical examination findings.

To better educate rheumatology trainees, Dr. Lori Albert has developed a web-based mobile-friendly teaching application called RheumExam Atlas. RheumExam Atlas is an on-line image collection of common and important rheumatologic findings, findings typically missed by students, and findings commonly cited as "never been seen". The application consists of high resolution images encouraging students to actively inspect the images for findings. A concealable text box can then be opened to provide instant feedback with regards to the exact findings the students are seeing.

RheumExam Atlas was pilot tested with a group of medical students in Toronto. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive with users commenting on the excellent visibility of the images, ease of use, accessibility, and overall performance to be superior to a similar print-based format.

In summary, RheumExam Atlas is a web-based readily accessible resource which supports learning and recognition of a broad-range of key physical findings in rheumatic diseases. The Atlas can be used for structured teaching or during clinical encounters, it can be used with all specialties and all health professionals, and it can be used in both urban and rural locations with or without a rheumatologist teacher.

I would encourage each of you to visit rheumexamatlas.com to provide support and feedback to Dr. Albert and her team. Pictures can be submitted to the atlas by emailing rheumexamatlas@gmail.com.

More reports from 2016 CRA & AHPA